It is illegal to overload carriers and other Public Service Vehicles (PSVs).

That’s the warning from the Land Transport Authority of Fiji (LTA).

LTA chief executive officer,  Samuel Simpson said: “Public Service Vehicles are governed by rules that are meant to safely transport multiple passengers at a time.  Overloading and Public Service Vehicles put Fijian lives in danger and is a classic example of negligence on the part of the driver.”

His comments come after a photo of an overloaded carrier went viral on social media.

“Every vehicle has a maximum weight that they are designed to carry and any additional weight above this threatens the stability and the ability to maneuver the vehicle correctly. All Public Service Vehicles operators must take the safety of their passengers seriously as everyone has a family to go home to.

“Drivers found overloading carriers and other Public Service Vehicles vehicles will face the full brunt of the law.”

Mr Simpson said rules and regulations have been created for the sole purpose of safeguarding lives.

“While there is a great deal of negligence shown by the driver of the carrier, passengers must also exercise caution and common sense to not get into a situation that would endanger them and other road users.”

LTA was established to provide a safe land transport system for the nation in partnership with stakeholders, the Fijian Government and the community.